Jointed Snake

thingiverse

This sea turtle model by 4MULE8 inspired me to create a snake with multiple body segments, each fitted with ball joints for limited movement. The snake consists of an arbitrary number of segments and tail tip, all connected using these ball joints. Currently, only the body segment is available. Printing PLA directly onto an acrylic build plate is recommended, with standard settings taking about an hour. Internal supports ensure successful printing; they break away easily without leaving much evidence. The snake's body length is approximately two inches per segment, and joining segments requires aligning the lower ball vertically and squeezing the prongs together firmly until flush. Note that the cavity behind the lower ball joint is snug, which may cause slight grinding at extremes.